St. Anne's Church

"Built between 1495 and 1500, St. Anne's Church is a prime example of Brick Gothic and Flamboyant Gothic styles. Its intricate brickwork, towering red facade, and slender spires adorned with decorative elements create a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. The exterior of the church is a feast for the eyes. Look for the intricate details like flying buttresses, lancet windows with tracery, and decorative gables. The interplay of red brick and white stonework adds to the visual appeal. Despite its captivating beauty, St. Anne's Church is surprisingly small. This compact size adds to its charm and creates a sense of intimacy inside the church. Originally built as a chapel for the Brotherhood of St. Anne, the church was commissioned by Queen Anna, wife of Grand Duke Vytautas the Great. The church's name honors Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary. Over the centuries, St. Anne's Church has become a beloved symbol of Vilnius. Its unique architectural style and enduring presence have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The church is shrouded in local legends. One popular tale claims that Napoleon Bonaparte was so impressed by its beauty that he vowed to protect it from destruction. While the truth remains unclear, the story adds to the church's mystique."

"🇬🇧The church is beautiful from the outside, it is according to the locals an essential and an integral part of their history. 🇫🇷L’église est magnifique de l’extérieur, elle est d’après les locaux un indispensable et fait partie intégrante de leur histoire. "

"Probably Vilnius' most famous church. The story goes that when Napoleon passed through Vilnius he was so enamored with this church that he wanted to carry it home in his palm. The complex is two churches with two different sets of hours. Both are free entry. "